The Cardinals finalized a one year deal with a mutual option for a second season for 66 year old manager Tony LaRussa, just 15 days after the season ended with a second place finish behind the Cincinnati Reds.
LaRussa will be back for his 16th season for sure. Beyond that will need to be determined. However, he would have to manage into 2012 if he has any shot of becoming the second winningest manager of all time passing John McGraw. LaRussa has a franchise record 1,318 wins and has 2,638 wins overall. He’ll need 126 wins for second place.
All of the coaches will be offered contracts later this week with the exception of bullpen coach Marty Mason.
